The heart is the locus of both physical and spiritual being, representing the “central wisdom of feeling as opposed to the head-wisdom of reason” (Cooper, 82). It is a symbol of compassion, understanding, and life-giving love. Often regarded as the seat of emotions, the heart is synonymous with affection.My intention is to represent the core of the human person: a heart that beats and sustains the body, but also a heart capable of love, forgiveness, and spiritual life.